Sunday, October 07, 2012

America's Cup World Series 2012

Immediately following Saturday's Fleet Week airshow, it was a ridiculously short walk to the St. Francisco Yacht Club for the America's Cup races. Large crowds lined the shore. Best viewing was from the end of the jetty, which was the finish line & where boats passed within yards of the spectators.

I saw 2 fleet races involving all 11 teams. Oracle Team Spithall enlivened the event by capsizing spectacularly at the 1st turn-around, but they redeemed themselves by coming in 2nd in the following race. I have no idea how this sport actually works, so the color commentary being broadcast to the crowd was helpful. It was also pretty funny. When the boats piled up at one end of the course, one of the commentators said, "It's like Lombard Street on a Saturday night!"

The America's Cup Village, containing a big screen, concessions, gift shop, & hospitality lounge, was squeezed onto the Little Marina Green at the end of Baker Street. Plenty of security guards kept the crowds moving & out of the areas for people who paid to be here.§ America's Cup World Series 2012San Francisco, USA: Oct 02 - Oct 07